From New York Times bestselling author Tony Hillerman comes another unforgettable mystery in which Leaphorn & Chee must race against the clock to solve two brutal murders. “[Hillerman’s] clowns are . . . every bit as raucous, profane, and funny as Shakespeare’s.”—New York Times Book ReviewDuring a kachina ceremony at the Tano Pueblo, the antics of a dancing koshare fill … Review
During a kachina ceremony at the Tano Pueblo, the antics of a dancing koshare fill the air with tension. Moments later, the clown is found bludgeoned to death, in the same manner a reservation schoolteacher was killed only days before.
Officer Jim Chee and Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn believe that answers lie in the sacred clown’s final cryptic message to the Tano people. But to decipher it, the two Navajo policemen may have to delve into closely guarded tribal secrets—on a sinister trail of blood that links a runaway, a holy artifact, corrupt Indian traders, and a pair of dead bodies.
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A good read, if a bit predictable entry in the Hillerman oeuvre. It is certainly a page turner.
I have always enjoyed this series and reading one out-of-order does not detract from this story. Following the development of the Characters is always interesting.
Goldman’s books are always good reads. Sacred Clowns is especially enjoyable as it continues to develop Leaphorn as a multidimensional character. Great plot twists as well.
His books are always well done. I learn alot about the area and like the characters and plots.
A solid part of the series. Enjoyable read that does not require familiarity with the rest of the series.
Good story, great descriptions of characters, easy read.
Tony, Tony why did you have to go? I can’t help but think that you had yet many books to write and I will miss you so. You daughter is doing a respectable job and she’s good but I do miss you and your characters. Jim Chee is my favorite. He’s willfull at times, inexact at others but you can count on him to find the truth. The Navajo way is emblazoned in my cranium. Thank you Tony.
Tony Hillerman turns out another one. His characters become like old friends, his insights into their psychology is sound, and all is wrapped up in a culture that propels the plot.
I like Tony Hillerman and yet didn’t think this was one of his best. The many characters came on rapidly and without enough background to make them three dimensional. This created a lack of depth that left me detached when I should have been pulled in. Just not one of the best in Hillerman’s excellent series. It tried to do too much too fast and didn’t quite make it.
Love this genre
I love all of Hillerman’s books. They are interesting page-turners and I always feel transported to the “Big Res”.
Good glimpse into Hopi culture and its differences from Navajo. Very descriptive.
I enjoy all of Mr Hillerman’s books, he was an amazing and entertaining writer. His daughter continues his legacy!
Love Tony Hillerman books!
Up to Hillerman’s high standards.
I like the characters, the description of land and Indian traditions. A good plot that has some surprises.
As always Tony Hillerman writes a great mystery with wonderful characters
All of this authors books are great.
For anyone interested in the Southwest and particularly the Navajo nation, Tony Hillerman’s book are always a good read. In addition they informational about Navajo culture and religion.
This book give a great insight to what living on the big reservation is like. It also give the reader a very good picture of what the country is like. I love reading these books.